Ranchi, June 10: In a significant development, the Jharkhand State Coordination Committee conducted its inaugural meeting under the leadership of Member of Parliament and Committee Chairman, Shibu Soren. During the meeting, committee members expressed their intent to approach the President with a request to implement the Sarna Dharma Code.
During the meeting Vinod Pandey and State Congress President Rajesh Thakur expressed that despite facing numerous obstacles, the government led by Hemant Soren has been diligently working for the betterment of the state. The government has implemented several beneficial measures and made noteworthy decisions in the interest of the people. While these decisions have the potential to become historic milestones for the state, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has shown a disregard for public sentiment and has not responded positively to local policies, reservation, and planning initiatives.
After the meeting, committee member Vinod Pandey and State Congress President Rajesh Thakur addressed the media, highlighting the government’s dedication to public welfare. They expressed their disappointment with the conduct of the opposition party, BJP, stating that their approach towards the policies formulated by the government has been unfavorable.
High level delegation to meet the President
Vinod Pandey, a member of the State Coordination Committee, highlighted the importance of the Sarna Dharma Code and expressed concern over the lack of response from the Central Government. He announced that a high-level delegation would be formed to meet the President and appeal for the prompt implementation of the Sarna Dharma Code.
Pandey emphasized the significance of the Sarna Dharma Code for the tribal population of the state and acknowledged the efforts of the state government in passing the code through the assembly. However, the committee member expressed disappointment over the absence of a response from the Central Government. In response to this delay, the committee has decided to establish a high-level delegation to press for the implementation of the code.
The primary objective of the delegation’s meeting with the President is to seek his support and intervention in expediting the implementation of the Sarna Dharma Code. Furthermore, Pandey highlighted another significant policy implemented by the state government, which mandates the appointment of local individuals for 75 percent of positions in the private sector. He stressed the need for strict adherence to this policy, urging the government to enforce its implementation effectively.
Removal of errors in public interest decisions
Committee members expressed their concern over the return of certain rules and policies to the state government due to identified errors. They emphasized that the state government, while passing these policies through the assembly, aims to consider the sentiments of the public. However, the presence of errors has resulted in the return of these policies.
One such policy, the local policy, was passed through a voice vote in the assembly and subsequently sent to the governor for approval. Unfortunately, it was returned without receiving approval. The committee has requested the state government to promptly address the errors and implement the local policy in accordance with the sentiments of the people.
Similarly, the state government also sent the SC, ST, and OBC reservation policy to the appropriate authorities for approval. However, it faced a similar fate and was returned without approval. The committee has urged the government to rectify any remaining errors and work towards reintroducing the policy as soon as possible.
Lack of opposition cooperation hinders state progress
Thakur emphasized that the government is keen on working at all levels to fulfill its responsibilities. However, the opposition’s refusal to extend cooperation has hindered the progress and effective implementation of various bills and policies aimed at the welfare of the state’s residents.
Thakur specifically pointed out the BJP’s efforts to impede the government’s initiatives through legal channels, causing delays and disruptions. These actions have raised concerns among the committee members, who believe that such obstructionist behavior is not in the best interest of the state.
Responding to a question, Thakur clarified that the primary role of the State Coordination Committee is to provide timely advice and guidance to the government. The committee remains committed to fulfilling this responsibility, offering its expertise and insights to aid in the state’s progress.
Thakur expressed hope that the opposition would recognize the importance of collaboration and support the government’s endeavors for the overall development and well-being of the state and its residents.
Urgent restoration of revenue personnel and continuation of Intermediate studies
Bandhu Tirkey, an invited member of the committee, raised concerns about the shortage of revenue personnel during the recent meeting. Tirkey urged the government to restore the sanctioned posts of revenue personnel in various zones. The current shortage has resulted in a delay in rectifying land-related documents. Tirkey emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure the smooth functioning of land-related processes.
Another significant topic discussed during the meeting was the discontinuation of intermediate studies in colleges. Rajesh Thakur, a member of the committee, expressed his concerns and urged the government to reconsider its decision. Thakur and other committee members stressed the importance of allowing intermediate studies to continue in colleges until an alternative arrangement is put in place.